The North Korean government first released the “Arirang” smartphone in 2013, which appeared to run a modified version of Google’s Android operating system. The updated Pyongyang Touch now comes in a range of colours and is reminiscent of the iPhone 3.

Internet access is banned in the country, which instead uses a government-controlled intranet. North Korea’s 3G network only came online in 2013. While iPhones are also blocked under international sanctions, it’s highly doubtful the government would allow them in any case.

It’s also unclear whether devices have made it into the hands of every-day North Koreans, or just elites.

In any case, the Arirang and Pyongyang Touch are luxuries in the country. The UN reports that North Korea keeps many citizens in horrific forced labour camps and is one of the world’s worst human rights offenders.

REUTERS/Jacky ChenFor all its bizarre and entertaining headlines, the North Korean Government remains one of the worst abusers of its citizens’ human rights in the world.

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